HomeMy WebLinkAboutOrd 2015-3357 ORDII�'AIvCE NO. 33�7
ORDII�'ANCE OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA AMENDING
THE LANDSCAPE WATER COI�'SERVATION ORDII�TAi`'CE.
CHAPTER 20.12 OF THE M[.7NICIPAL CODE. TO COMPLY
VdITH STATE REQUIREMEI�iTS TO INCREASE WATER
EFFICIENCY FOR I�7E�i' AND RETROFITTED LANDSCAPES
WHEREAS, in response to the ongoing drought in Califomia the Califomia Code of
Re�ulations Title 23. V1'aters; Di��ision 2, Depanment of V✓ater Resources, Chapter 2.7 "A�odel
E�cienr Londscape Ordinance" ���as revised and appro��ed b�� the Califomia Water Commission
on Julv 7. 201�: and
VJHEREAS, the action requires all municipalities and counties to either adopt the re��ised
State`s Model Water Ordinance; or to adopt an ordinance of equal or greater efficac}� by
December 1, 2015. The proposed revisions to the esisting Chula Vista Landscape Water
Consen�ation Ordinance meet the State requirements; and
V�'HEREAS, the current Chula Vista Landscape �i'ater Consen�ation Ordinance; Chapter
20.12 of the Chula Vista Municipal Code. came into effect on Januan� 1, 2010. The key
principle was a requirement to compare and not exceed the anticipated water availability, on a
given landscape project; with the estimated ��ater use once the landscape ar�d imgation are
installed: and
VJHEREAS, Governor BroHm's Drought Ezecutive Order ofApril 1, 201� (EO B-29-1�)
directed the Department of Water Resources to update the State's Model Water Efficient
Landscape Ordinance throueh expedited regulation; and
WHEREAS, the E�ecutive Order called for re��ising the State's Model Ordinance to
increase ��ater efficiency standards for new and retrofitted landscapes through:
• more efficient imeation s��stems
• ere��vater usage
• onsite storm water capture
• limiting the portion of landscapes that can be covered in turf
• lo��erine`the amount of w�ater allow�ance that can be applied to landscape; and
VJHEREAS, updatine the ordinance to incorporate these elements wRll help stretch
limited N�ater supplies; and
WHEREAS; the California Water Commission approeed its revised model water
ordinance on Jul}� 7, 2015, and released the final text to municipalities on Sept 15; and
Ordinance No. 3357
Page No. 2
WHEREAS, the Executive Order also requires reporting on the implementation and
enforcement of local ordinances. ti�ith required reports due by December 31, 2015.
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Chula Vista does ordain as follows:
Section I.
CHAPTER 20.12, LANDSCAPE WATER CONSERVATION
Sections:
20.12.010 Purpose
20.12.020 Definitions
20.12.030 Applicability
20.12.040 Eaemptions
20.12.050 City of Chula Vista Landscape Manual
20.12.060 Landscape Documentation Package
20.12.070 Title Sheet
20.12.080 Soil Management Report
20.12.090 Planting Plan
20.12.100 Landscape Construction Plan
20.12.110 ]rrigation Plans
20.12.120 Grading Plans
20.12.130 Irrigation S}�stem Design
20.12.140 Maximum Applied Water Allowance (MAWA)
20.12.150 Estimated Total Water Use (ETWU)
20.12.160 Water Allowance/ Water Use Comparison.
20.12.170 Limitations On The Use Of Water Features.
20.12.180 Turf Regulations
20.12.190 Public Education & Model Homes
2012.200 Recyded Water& Gray Water
20.12.210 Landscape Installation
20.12.220 Landscape and Irrigation Maintenance
20.12.230 Modified Approvals
20.12.240 Irrigation Testing and Statement of Substantial Conformance
20.12.2�0 City's Right To lnspect
20.12.260 Waste Water Prevention
APPENDIX 1 Prescriptive Compliance Option
2012.010 Purpose
The State Legislature determined in the Water Conservation in Landscaping'Act (the "AcP`),
Government Code sections 6�591 et seq. that the State's water resources are in limited supply.
The Legislature also recognized that while ]andscaping is essential to the quality of life in
California, landscape design, installation, maintenance and management must be water efficient.
The general purpose of this chapter is to establish water use standards for landscapes in Chula
Vista that implement the landscape design requirements established by the Act. An updated
Model Water Ordinance was approved by the California Water Commission on July 7, 2015
Consistent with the Legislature's findings, the purpose of this ordinance is to:
Ordinance No. 3357
Pase No. 3
A. Promote the ��alues and benefits of landscaping practices that integrate and go beyond the
conservation and efficient use of��ater.
B. Establish a structure for planning, desienine, installing, maintainine and managing water
efficient landscapes in ne���and rehabilitated landscapes.
C. Use of water efficientl��, and ��ithout ���aste, b}� settine a Ma�imum Applied R'ater
Allowance as an upper limit for���ater use at the lo��est practical amount.
D. Create conditions to support life in the soil b�� reducing compaction, incorporating
organic matter that increases ��ater retention. and promoting producti��e plant grotith that
leads to more carbon storage, os}�een production, shade, habitat and esthetic benefits.
E. Minimize energv use bv reducine irrieation water requirements, reducine reliance on
petroleum-based fertilizers and pesticides, and plantine climate-appropriate shade trees in
urban azeas.
F. Conserve N�ater b�� capturing and reusine rainwater and era���ater w�here��er possible and
selecting dimate-appropriate plants that need minimal supplemental ti�ater afier
establishment.
G. Protect air and ���ater qualiri� b}� reducine power equipment use and landfill disposal trips.
selectine rec��cled and locall�� sourced materials, and usin2 compost, mulch and efficient
imgation ro prevent erosion.
H. Protect esisting habitat and creatine new habitat by choosing local native plants, climate
adapted non-natives and avoiding im�asive plants. Utilizing integrated pest management
���ith least tozic methods as the first course of action.
20.12.020 Definitions
A. "Applicant" means an indi��idual or entit}� submittine a landscape documentation
packaee to request a permit, plan check. or design revieH� from the City of Chula Vista.
B. "Automatic irrigatioo controller" means an automatic timine device used to remotely
control valves that operate an irrigation s��stem. Automatic imeation controllers are able to
self-adjust and_schedule imeation e�=ents usine either e��apotranspiration (���eather-based) or
soil moisture data.
C. "Backflow prevention device" means a safety device used to prevent pollution or
contamination of the water suppl}� due to the reverse flow of water from the imgation
svstem.
D. "Cih�" means the Cirv of Chula Vista.
E. "Certified landscape irrigation auditor' means a person certified to perform landscape
irrieation audits b�� an accredited academic institution, a professional trade organization or
other program such as the US Environmental Protection Agencv`s WaterSense irrigation
auditor certification program and Imga[ion Association's Certified Landscape Irrigation
Auditor program.
F. "Compost" means the safe and stable product of controlled biologic decomposition of
oreanic materials that is beneficial to plant gro�rth. (It may include the material knotim as
Biochar.)
G. "Con��ersion factor (0.62)" means the number that con��erts acre-inches per acre per
��ear to gallons per squaze foot per yeaz.
H. "Cool season turf" means a t��pe of turf that remains ereen in the winter months.
Ordinance No. 33�7
Page No. 4
L "llistribution uniformity" means the measure of the uniformity of irrigation water over
a defined area.
J. "Drip irrigatiod' means any non-spray low volume irrigation system utilizing emission
devices H�ith a flow rate measured in gallons per hour. Low volume irrigation systems are
specifically designed to apply small volumes of water slowly at or near the root zone of
plants.
K. "Ecological restoration projecN' means a project where the site is intentionally altered
to establish a defined, indioenous, historic ecosystem.
L. "Effective precipitation" or "usable rainfall" (Eppt) means the portion of total
precipitation which becomes available for plant growth.
M. "Emitter" means a drip irrigation emission device that delivers water slowly from the
system to the soil.
N. "Established" in the context of landscape, means the point at which plants in the
landscape have developed significant root growth into the site. Typically most plants are
established afrer one or two years. Native habitat mitigation areas and trees may need three to
five years for establishment.
O. "Estimated Total Water Use" (ETWU) means the total water used for the landscape
area of the project.
P. "ET adjustment factor (ETAFp' means a factor that when applied to "reference
evapotranspiration"; adjusts for plant water requirements and irrigation efficiency, two major
influences on the amount of water required for healthy landscapes. The ETAF for residential
areas is 0.55 or below. The ETAF for non-residential areas is 0.45 or below. The ETAF for
new and existing (non-rehabilitated) Special Landscape Areas shall not exceed 1.0. The
ETAF for existing non-rehabilitated landscapes is 0.8.
Q. "E��apotranspiration rate" means the quantity of water evaporated from adjacent soil
and other surfaces and transpired by plants during a specified time. See also `reference
evapotranspiration.'
R. "Flow rate" means the rate at which water flows through pipes, valves and emission
devices, measured in gallons per minute, gallons per hour, or cubic feet per second.
S. "Flow sensor" means an inline device installed at the supply point of the irrigation
system that produces a repeatable signal proportional to flow rate. Flow sensors must be
connected to an automatic irrigation controller, or flow monitor capable of receiving flow
signals and operating master valves. This combination flow sensor/controller may also
function as a ]andscape water meter or sub-meter.
T. "Friable" means a soil condition that is easily crumbled or loosely compacted down to a
minimum depth per planting material requirements, whereby the root structure of newly
planted material will be allowed to spread unimpeded.
U. "Fuel Modification Plan Guideline" means guidelines from a local fire authority to
assist residents and businesses that are developing land or building structures in a fire hazard
severity zone.
V. "Gray water"means untreated wastewater that has not been contaminated by any toilet
discharge, has not been affected by infectious, contaminated, or unhealthy bodily wastes, and
does not present a threat from contamination by unhealthPul processing, manufacturing, or
operating wastes. "Gray water" includes, but is not limited to, wastewater from bathtubs,
showers, bathroom ��ashbasins, dothes washing machines, and laundry tubs, but does not
include wastewater from kitchen sinks or dishwashers. Health and Safety Code Section
17922.12. All graywater systems shall conform to the Califomia Plumbing Code (Title 24,
Part 5; Chapter 16) and any applicable Chula Vista Standards.
Ordinance No. 33�7
Paae I�io. �
R'. "H}�drozone" means a portion of the landscape azea havina plants N�ith similaz ��ater
needs and root depth. A hydrozone may be imeated or non-imgated.
X. "Infiltratiou rate" means the rate of ���ater entry into the soil expressed as a depth of
���ater per unit of time (e.g., inches per hour).
Y. "Iuvasi��e plant species" means species of plants not historicall}� found in Califomia that
spread outside culti��ated azeas and can damage en��ironmental or economic resources.
Invasi��e species mav be reeulated by countv agriculturai agencies as nozious species.-Lists
of im�asive plants are maintained at the Califomia lnvasive Plant Inventon� and USDA
imasive and noxious ���eeds database.
Z. "Irrigation audiY' means an in-depth e��aluation of the performance of an irrigation
system conducted by a Certified Landscape Irrieation Auditor. An imgation audit includes,
but is not limited to: inspection, system tune-up, s��stem test ���ith distribution uniformity or
emission uniformitv, reporting o��erspray or runoff that causes overland flow. and preparation
of an imeation schedule. The audit must be conducted in a manner consistent with the
Imgation Association's Landscape Irrigation Auditor Certification proeram or other U.S.
En��ironmental Protection Agency "�1'atersense" labeled auditine pro2ram.
AA. `9rrigation efTicieocp" (IE) Imeation efficiencv means the measurement of the
amount of �+�ater beneficiallv used divided by the water applied. Imeation efficiency is
derived from measurements and estimates of irrieation svstem characteristics and
management practices. The imgation efficiencv for purposes of this ordinance is OJ� for
o�erhead spray devices and 0.81 for drip systems.
BB. `7n��asi��e plant species" means an evaluation of an irri�ation system that is less
detailed than an imgation audit An imgation survey includes, but is not limited to:
inspection, system test, and N�ritten recommendations to improve performance of the
imeation sysiem.
CC. "Landscape architect" means a person ��ho holds a license to practice landscape
architecture in the state of Califomia, pursuant to Business and Professions Code, Section
�61�.
DD. "Landscape area" means an area with outdoor plants, mrf and other veeetation
that uses water pro��ided by the Otay Water District, the Sti�eet"�ater Authorit�� or other local
��ater purveyoc A landscape azea includes water features either in an azea with veeetation or
that stands alone. A landscape area does not include the footprint of buildines, structures,
decks, patios; sidewalks, dri��ewavs, eravel or stone walkways ��oid of plant materials; paved
portions of pazking lots or other hazd landscape. A landscape azea does not indude an azea
without irrigation designated for non-development such as designated open space or area
with esisting natural vegetation or a transition zone.
EE. "Landscape water meter" means an inline device installed at the imgation
supplti� point that measures the flow of water into the irrigation system and is connected to a
totalizer to record H�ater use.
FF. "Landscape Mauual" means the Cit�� of Chula Vista Landscape Manual as may
be amended from time to time.
GG. "Landscape Documentation Package ` means a package of drawines and other
documents that aze required to be submitted to the City for approval in order to demonstrate
that the landscape design complies with the requirements of this ordinance. The landscape
documentation packaee is subject to periodic update as part of the landscape manual.
Ordinance No. 3357
Page No. 6
HH. "Low head drainage" means a sprinkler head or other imgation device that
continues to emit water to the zone in which it is located afier it has shut off.
11. "Low volume irrigation" means any equipment that uniformly delivers a low
volume of water, precipitation rate, to the landscape such as 0.5 inches, 0.7 inches and 1.0
inch per hour.
JJ. "Low water usage" means a plant species identified as having a low plant factor
in the context of plant selection.
KK. "High water usage' means a plant species identified as having a high plant factor
in the context ofplant selection.
LL. "Mandatory Water Restriction" Restrictions to water supply mandated by the
State of California.
MM. "Master shut-off valve" is an automatic valve installed at the irrigation supply
point which controls water flow into the imgation system. When this valve is closed water
will not be supplied to the irrigation system. A master valve will greatly reduce any water
loss due to a leaky station valve.
NN. "Maximum Applied Water Allowance" (MAWA) means the maximum allowed
water use for a specific landscape area based on the square footage of the azea, the ETAF and
the reference ETo. The Estimated Total Water Use shall not exceed the Maacimum Applied
Water Allo��ance. (Special Landscape Areas, including recreation areas, areas permanently
and solely dedicated to edible plants such as orchards and vegetable gardens, and areas
irrigated witb recyded water are subject to the MAWA with an ETAF not to eaceed 1.0.)
MAWA= (ETo) (0.62) [(ETAF x LA) + ((1-ETAF) x SLA)]
00. "Median" is an area between opposing lanes of traffic that may be unplanted or
planted with trees, shrubs, perennials, and ornamental grasses.
PP. "Mine land reclamation projecY' means any surface mining operation with a
reclamation plan approved in accordance with the Surface Mining and Reclamation Act of
1975.
QQ. "Mulch" means an organic material such as leaves bark, straw or inorganic
mineral materials such as rocks, gravel or decomposed granite lefr loose as applied to the soil
surface to reduce evaporation, suppress weeds, moderate soil temperature or prevent erosion.
RR. "Multi-family residential developmenY' means condominiums, apartments and
mobile homes.
SS. "New construction" means, for the purposes of this ordinance, a new building
with a landscape or other new landscape, such as a park, playground, or greenbelt without an
associated building.
TT. "Non-residential landscape" means landscapes in commercial, institutional;
industrial and public settings that may have areas designated for recreation or public
assembly. It also includes portions of common azeas of common interest developments with
designated recreational areas.
UU. "Operating pressure" means the pressure at which the parts of an irrigation
system are designed by the manufacturer to operate.
VV. "Outdoor `WaterSmarY Package" means a documenUdocuments, for example
leaflets and a checklist of recommendations, describing landscape water conservation
principles and techniques, including water budgeting, appropriate to small landscape design,
installation and renovation.
Ordinance No. 33�7
Pase No. 7
�VW. "O��erhead spra�� devices" or "o��erhead spray irrieation svstems" means
systems that deliver water through the air (e.g., spra}� heads and rotors).
XX. "Overspray" means the «�ater from irrieation or that is deli<<ered outside an area
targeted for the imeation and makes contact with a surface not intended to be irrigated.
YY. "Parkwav" means the azea bet��een a side���alk and the curb or traffic lane. It
may be planted or unplanted, and with or ti�ithout pedestrian egress.
ZZ. "PermiP' means an authorizine document issued bv local aeencies for ne�v
construction or rehabilitated landscapes. �
AAA. "Pervious" means anq surfaces or material that allows the passaee of water
throueh the material and into underlvine soil.
BBB� "Plaut factor" means a factor that, when multiplied b}� the ETo, estimates the
amount of�a�ater a plant needs for healthy growKh. For purposes of this ordinance; the plant
factor ranee for verv low� w�ater use plants is 0 to 0.1, the plant factor ranee for lo��� water use
plants is 90.1 to 0.3, the plant factor range for moderate w�ater use plants is 0.4 to 0.6, and the
plant factor range for hieh w�ater use plants is 0.7 to 1.0. Plant factors cited in this ordinance
are derived from the publication "Water Use Classification of Landscape Species". Plant
factors ma}� also be obtained from horticultural researchers, from academic institutions or
professional associations as approved by the California Department of Water Resources
(DWR).
CCC. "Point of Connectiou" means the source of ti�ater for a specific irri�ation system.
DDD. "Precipitation rate" means the rate of application of H�ater measured in inches
per hour.
EEE. "Prescriptive Compliauce Optiod' — An alternati��e submittal to the `landscape
documentation package' that ma�� be used as a compliance option for approval of small scale
landscape and imgation projects.
FFF. "Recreational area" means an azea, escluding pri��ate single family residential
areas; designated for active pla��, recreation or public assembly in parks, sports fields, picnic
grounds; amphitheaters or golf course tees, fain��a}�s, roughs, surrounds and ereens.
GGG. "Rec��cled water" means ti�ater that has been treated at the hiehest level required
by the California Department of Health Services for H�ater not intended for human
consumption. "Teniarv treated rec��cled �vater' means ��ater that has been through three
levels of treatment including filtration and disinfectant. "Recvcled water' is sometimes
referred to as "reclaimed water'.
HHH. "Reference evapotranspiratiod' or "ETo" means a standard measurement of
environmental pazameters that affect the water use of plants. ETo is given in inches per da}�.
month or year and is an esiimate of the evapotranspiration of a lazge field of four inches to
seven inches tall, cool season tw-f that is well watered. Reference evapotranspiration is used
as the basis of determinine the MAWA so that reeional difference in climate can be
accommodated. � y
[[I. "Rehabilitated landscape" means am� re-landscaping project. that requires a
permit, plan check; or desien review; in accordance H�ith the applicability criteria of this
ordinance, and the modified landscape area is equal or greater than 2.500 squaze feet In the
case of single-family homes, onlv those construction projects that have impacts to
landscaped azeas shall be deemed to be rehabilitated landscapes.
JJJ. "Residential de��elopmenN' means development of sinsle famil�� or multi-famih
homes. �
Ordinance No. 3357
Page No. 8
KKK. "RunofP' means water that is not absorbed by the soil or landscape to N�hich it is
applied and flows from the landscaped azea. For example, runoff may result from water that
is applied at too great a rate (application rate exceeds infiltration rate) or when there is a
slope.
LLL. "Smart controller" means a weather-based or soil moisture based imgation
controller that monitors and uses information about environmental conditions for a specific
location to automatically adjust v��atering schedules.
MMM. "Soil moisture sensing device" or "soil moisture sensor" means a device that
measures the amount of water in the soil. The device may also suspend or initiate an
irrigation event.
NNN. "Soil texture' means the classification of soil based on its percentage of sand,
silt, and clay.
000. "SoiP' means the growing medium available for plant growth.
PPP. "Special landscaped area" (SLA) means an area of the landscape dedicated
solely to edible plants, recreational areas, areas irrigated with recycled water, or water
features using recycled water.
QQQ. "Sprinkler head" or "spray head" means a device which delivers water through
a nozzle.
R.RR. "Statement of Substantial Conformance" references the form administered by
landscapeinspectors.
SSS. "Static water pressure" means the pipeline or municipal water supply pressure
when water is not flowing.
TTT. "Station" means an area served by one valve or by a set of valves that operate
simultaneously.
UUU. "Sub meter" means a metering device to measure water applied to the landscape
that is installed after the primary utility water meter.
VW. "Turt" means a ground cover surface of mowed grass. Annual bluegrass;
Kentucky bluegrass, Perennial ryegrass, Red fescue, and Tall fescue are cool-season grasses.
Bermudagrass; Kikuyugrass; Seashore Paspalum, St. Augustinegrass, Zoysiagrass; and
Buffalo grass are warm-season grasses.
W W W. "Valve" means a device used to control the flow of water in the irzigation system.
XXX. `Negetated area" means an area with vegetation that is irrigated.
YYY. "Warm season turt" means a type of turf that grows during warm weather but
becomes dormant during cold weather.
ZZZ. "Water feature" means a design element where open water provides an
aesthetic or recreational function. Water features include ponds, lakes, waterfalls, fountains.
artificial streams, spas, and swimming pools (where water is artificially supplied). The
surface area of water features is induded in the high water use hydrozone of the landscape
area. Constructed wetlands used for on-site wastewater treatment or storm water best
management practices that are not irrigated and used sole]y for water treatment or storm
water retention are not water features and, therefore, are not subject to the water budget
calculation.
AAAA. "WUCOLS" means the Water Use Classification of Landscape Species
published by the Universit}� of Califomia Cooperative Extension and the Department of
Water Resources 2014, as may be amended from time to time.
Ordinance No. 33�7
Paee No. 9
20.012.030 Applicabilih�
Afrer December 1. 201� this ordinance shall appl}� to any project requirine a building permit,
discretionary permit, or City approval of landscape and imgation plans that are within the
follo«�ino categories:
A. Ne«� coustruction projects H�ith an a�greeate landscape azea equal to or greater
than 500 square feet and rehabilitated landscape projects N�ith an asereQate
landscape area equal to or greater than 2,500 square feet requirine a buildine or
landscape permit, plan check or desian revie�v.
Applicants shall submit a Landscape Documentation Packaee to the Ciri� for
appro�al, b�� Citv signature, prior to the installation of the landscape improvements.
B. A model home that includes a landscape area where the home is sen�ed bv either
the Ota�� V�'ater District. the Sw�eet��ater Authoritv or the Califomia American V�'ater
Compan��. Applicants shall submit a Landscape Documentation Packaee to the Cin�
for approval, by Cin� signature, prior to the installation of the landscape
improvements. Plans shall include informational signs explaining the principles of
H�ater efficient landscape based on a ��ater budget.
C. For projects that are belo�r the above stated thresholds the City offers an
Outdoor Vdater Smart Packaee explaining techniques that can be used to consen�e
water in landscape design.
This ordinance shall apply to ne�i� applications and applications that have been throueh one City
plan check by Cih officials. Applications that have had two or more plan checks aze `erand
fathered' in, with their current landscape design concept. Ho���ever. it is recommended that the
applicant voluntarily modify landscape proposals that are hieh in water use.
2012.040 Ecemptions
This ordinance does not apply to the following:
A. Registered local, state or federal historical sites.
B. Ecoloeical restoration projects that do not require a permanent imeation svstem.
C. Mine land reclamation projects that do not require permanent irrieation s��stems.
D. Existing plant collections, as part of botanical gazdens and arboretums open to the
public.
20.12A�0 Cih� of Chula Vista Landscape Manual
The City of Chula Vista Landscape Manual is incorporated into the Chula Vista Municipal Code
b}� reference. The City of Chula Vista Landscape Manual may be periodically updated by the
Director of Development Ser��ices.
Ordinance No. 33�7
Page No. 10
20.12.060 Landscape Documeutation Package
Project applicants shall submit the necessary information on required landscape and irrigation
plans in a form and manner prescribed by the Director of Development Services. Necessazy
information shall include:
A. Title Sheet
B. Soil Management Report
C. Planting Plan
D. Landscape Construction Plan
E. Irrigation Plan
F. Grading Plan
20.12.070 Title Sheet
The title sheet shall contain items as described in the City of Chula Vista Landscape Manual.
The title sheet shall also contain the applicant's signature and a date along with the statement "I
am familiar with and agree to comply with the requirements for landscape improvement
plans as described in Chapter 20.12 of the Municipal Code. I have prepared this plan in
compliance with those regulations. I certify that the plan implements the regulations to
provide efficient landscape water use."
20.12.080 Soil Management Report
The soil management report shall be prepared by a licensed landscape architect, licensed civil
engineer or licensed architect and contain the information described in CVMC 2012.080.A and
20.12.080.B. The soil management report shall be based on site conditions after grading
operations have been completed. The soil management report information shall either be
submitted as one of the sheets in the planting plan set or as a separate document.
A. An analysis of the soil for the proposed landscape area of the project covering
information about soil texture, soil infiltration rate, pH, total soluble salts, plant
sodium, percent organic matter and horticultural suitability.
B. Recommendations for soil amendments that may be necessary to allow healthy plant
survival and growth in the landscape area using efficient irrigation techniques.
C. In projects with multiple landscape installations (i.e. production home
developments) a soil sampling rate of 1 in 7 lots or approximately 15% will satisfy
this requirement. Large landscape projects shall sample at a rate equivalent to 1 in 7
lots.
20.12.090 Planting Plan
The planting plan shall be prepared by a licensed landscape architect, licensed civil engineer or
licensed architect and contain, but is not limited to, the following information:
Ordinance No. 33�7
Pa¢e I�io. 1 1
A. A list/leaend of all veeetation b�� botanical and common name that eaists or is
proposed to be planted in the landscape area(s). For neti� planting include the
quantities, container size at planting, the location of each plant and the associated
hydrozone. Identifi� eaisting vegetation to remain and existing ve�etation to be
removed. Protection and presen�ation of native species and natural veeetation and
selection of local native species is encouraeed where appropriate.
B. The plantine design shall group plants in h��drozones based on the moisture
requirements of those plants. A h}�drozone ma}� mi� plants of moderate and lo�v��ater
usage or plants with hish w�ater usaee w�ith plants of moderate water usage. No
hydrozone shall mi� plants ti�ith high water usaee with plants N�ith lo��� water use.
Plant factors aze available from V�'UCOLS.
C. Plant selection shall tal:e in[o account suitabilih� of the soil and climatic attributes as �
N�ell as the availabilitv of supplemental �+�ater available throueh irrigation.
D. The planting plan set shall include plantine details. specifications, maintenance
specifications and responsibilities.
E. Plant selections for all propenies adjacent to a wild land—urban interface or open
space area shall comph� with current Chula Vista Fire Department guidelines and
reeulations.
F. The use of in��asive plant species, such as those listed b}� the Califomia lnvasive Plant
Council, is strongly discouraeed.
G. The plan shall demonstrate compliance N�ith best management practices required by
Section 14.20 of the Municipal Code.
H. High N�ater use plants, characterized b�� a plant factor of OJ to 1.0, aze prohibited in
street medians.
I. Soil Prepazation, Mulch and Amendments
(A) Prior to the planting of any materials, compacted soils shall be transformed to a
friable condition. On eneineered slopes, only amended planting holes need meet this
requirement.
(B) Soil amendments shall be incorporated accordine ro recommendations of the soil
report and what is appropriate for the plants selected.
(C) For landscape installations, compost at a rate of a minimum of four cubic yazds
per 1;000 squaze feet of permeable area shali be incorporated to a depth_oF six inches
into the soiL Soils H�ith greater than 6% oreanic matter in the top 6 inches of soil are
exempt from addin� compost and tilline.
J. Oreanic mulch materials made from recvcled or post-consumer shall tal:e precedence
over inorganic materials or virgin forest products unless the rec��cled post-consumer
organic products are not locally a��ailable. Organic mulches aze not required where
prohibited b�� local Fuel Modification Plan Guidelines or other applicable local
ordinances.
K. A minimum three inch (3") layer of mulch shall be applied on all exposed soil
surfaces of plantin2 areas escept in turf areas, creeping or rooting eroundco��ers, or
direct seeding applications where mulch is contraindicated. To pro��ide habitat for
beneficial insects and other w�ildlife. up to � % of the landscape area may be left
H�ithout mulch.
20.12.100 Landscape Construction Plan
Ordinance No. 33�7
Page No. 12
The landscape construction plan shall include all elements of hard landscape, paving, Storm
water management and drainage not shown on civil engineering plans. It shall include physical
layout, specifications and details. The landscape construction plan shall include plans, details
and specifications of any water features that comprise the overall landscape improvements.
Implementing storm water best management practices into the landscape and grading design
plans to minimize runoff and to increase on-site rainwater retention and infiltration are
encouraged.
A. Project applicants shall refer to the local agency or Regional Water Quality Control
Board for information on any applicable storm water technical requirements.
B. All planted landscape areas are required to have friable soil to maximize water retention
and infiltration.
C. It is strongly recommended that landscape areas be designed for capture and infiltration
capacity that is sufficient to prevent runoff from impervious surfaces as required by any
applicable local, regional, state or federal regulation.
D. It is recommended that storm water projects incorporate any of the following elements to
improve on-site storm water and dry weather runoff capture and use:
(1) Grade impervious surfaces, such as driveways, during construction to drain to
vegetated areas.
(2) Minimize the area of impervious surfaces such as paved areas, roof and
concrete driveways.
(3) Incorporate pervious or porous surfaces (e.g., gravel, permeable pavers or
blocks, pervious or porous concrete) that minimize runoff.
(4) Direct runoff from paved surfaces and roof areas into planting beds or
landscaped areas to maximize site water capture and reuse.
(5) Incorporate rain gardens, cistems, and other rain harvesting or catchment
systems.
(6) Incorporate infiltration beds, swales, basins and drywells to capture storm
water and dry weather runoff and increase percolation into the soil.
(7) Consider constructed weUands and ponds that retain water, equalize excess
flow, and filter pollutants.
20.12110 Irrigation Plans
The inigation plans shall be prepared by a licensed landscape architect, licensed civil engineer,
licensed architect or an irrigation consultant. The irrigation plans shall include, but are not be
limited to, the following information:
A. The location, rype and size of all components of the irrigation system that will
provide H�ater to the landscape area, including, but not limited to, controller, water
lines, valves; sprinkler heads, moisture sensing devices, rain switches, quick couplers,
pressure regulators and backflow devices.
B. The irrigation water source and type (potable or recycled), point of connection, the
static water pressure at the point of connection, the application rate in inches per hour
and the design operating pressure in pounds per square inch for each station.
Ordinance No. 33�7
Paee No. 13
C. Imgation schedule information indudina t��pical irrisation schedules that demonstrate
that landscape can thri��e using the MAWA calculated as part of that package. Include
specification notes for routine inspection, repair and replacement of equipment and
state the party responsible for maintenance.
D. A table that identifies MAV�'A for the improvements. induding the calculations used
to determine the MAR'.A. The calculations shall be based on the formula in pazagraph
20.12.140. Temporaril}� irrigated areas shall be included in the lo�� ��ater use
hydrozone. The surface area of a ���ater fearure or pool shall be induded in the hieh
water use azeas for the purposes of water budget calculation. �
E. A table that identifies ETVJU for the impro��ements and includes the calculations used
to determine the ETV�'U. The calculations shall be based on the formula in pazagraph
20.12.1�0. Temporaril}� imsated azeas shall be included in the low� ti�ater use
h}�drozone. The surface area of a ���ater feature or pool shall be included in the hi2h
H�ater use azeas for the purposes of N�ater budget calculation.
F. The plan shall demonstrate compliance with best mana�ement practices required by
Section 14.20 of the municipal code.
G. Identif}� any applicable gra����ater discharge pipine, system components and area(s) of
distribution.
H. Notes describine requirement to cam out an independent irrieation audit upon
completion of landscape improvements.
20.12.120 Grading Plans
Grading plans shall include site aradine information includine. but not limited to, elevations.
slope heights, draina2e pattems, pad elevations, storm ���ater management, and finish grade.
Previously approved erading plans that comply ��ith the Cit�� eradina ordinance Chapter 1�.04,
"as builr` gradine plans or gradine plans undergoine the erading permit approval process aze
acceptable submittals.
2012.130 Irrigation System Design
The folloH�ing techniques and practices shall be incorporated into the desien of imeation
systems:
A Landscape water meters, defined as either a dedicated «�ater sen�ice meter or pm�ate
sub-meter. shall be installed for all non-residential irri�ated landscapes of 1,000 sq. ft.
but not more than �.000 sq.fr. (the level at N�hich 6�'uter Code �3� applies) and
residential irrigated landscapes of �,000 sq. fr. or greatec A landscape water meter
mav be either:
1. A customer sen�ice meter dedicated to landscape use provided b��the local
��ater pun�eyor; or
2. A privately oH�ned meter or sub-meter.
B The imgation s��stem shall be designed to conform to the hydrozones of the plants
specified in the planting plan.
C The irrigation system shall be desiened to pre��ent runoff; o��er spra}�, lo�v-head
drainage and other similar conditions where irrigation w�ater flo���s or spravs onto azea
not intended for irriaation and use lo�v volume imeation or mulched areas «�here��er
feasible.
Ordinance No. 33�7
Page No. 14
D Portions of irrigation systems containing slopes greater than 25 percent shall utilize
an application rate of OJS inches per hour or less to prevent runoff unless the
applicant clearly demonstrates that no runoff or erosion will occur. (Prevention of
runoff and erosion must be confirmed during the irrigation audit.)
E Sprinkler heads and other low emission devices shall be selected based on what is
appropriate for the plant type in the hydrozone and shall have matched precipitation
rates unless otherwise directed by the manufacturer's recommendations.
F Sprinkler spacing shall be designed to achieve the highest possible distribution
uniformity.
G Areas less than ten (10) feet in width in any direction shall be irrigated with
subsurface irrigation or other means that produces no runoff or overspray.
H The system shall provide that only low volume irrigation is used to irrigate any
vegetation within 24 inches of an impermeable surface unless the adjacent
impermeable surfaces are designed and constructed to cause water to drain entirely
into landscaped areas.
J The irrigation system shall be regulated by means of a smart controller (either
evapotranspiration, weather based, soil moisture utilizing non-volatile memory based
or similar.)
K Imgation projects equal or greater than 5,000 square feet shall include the installation
of a master valve and flow sensor to prevent water waste associated with mainline
breaks and other Failures.
L Where feasible, trees shall be placed on separate valves from shrubs, groundcover and
turf to facilitate the appropriate irrigation of trees. The mature size and extent of the
root zone shall be considered when designing irrigation for the tree.
M IF the water pressure is below or exceeds the recommended pressure of the specified
irrigation devices; the installation of a pressure regulating device is required_to ensure
that the dynamic pressure at each emission device is within the manufacturers
recommended pressure range for optimal perfonnance.
N Flow sensors that detect high flow conditions created by system damage or
malfunction aze required for all on non-residential landscapes and residential
landscapes of 5000 sq. fr. or larger.
O All imgation emission devices must meet the requirements set in the American
National Standards Institute (ANSI) standard, American Society of Agricultural and
Biological Engineers'/International Code Council's (ASABE/ICC) 802-2014
"Landscape Irrigation Sprinkler and Emitter Standard, All sprinkler heads installed in
the landscape must document a distribution uniformity low quarter of 0.65 or higher
using the protocol defined in ASABE/ICC 802-2014.
20.12.140 Maximum Applied Water Allowance (MAWA)
All applicable landscapes shall not exceed the MAWA calculated for the project using the
following formula:
Ordinance No. 33�7
Page No. 15
�wA = ��To��a6z)[CETaF a La� +��i-ETaF� a sLa)l
In Hhich the follo�i�ing abbreviations apply:
l. b4AWA=Ma�imum Applied Water Allow�ance in gallons/}�ear
2. ETo = Evapotranspiration in inches per yeaz.
3. 0.62 = Conversion Factor to gallons per square foot.
4. ETAF = OS� or belo��� for residential landscape azea
�. ETAF = 0.4� or belo��� for non-residential areas
6. LA = Landscape Area exduding SLA.
7. SLA = Portion of the landscape area identified as Special Landscape azeas.
Measured in square feet*
* The Cin- reserves the right to reduce the ET adjustment factor (ETAF) for
Special Landscape Areas that are the responsibilih� of the City to maintain.
2012.150 Estimated Total �i'ater Use (ET�i'LJ)
All applicable landscape shall calculate the ETV�'U for each project using the follo���ing Formula:
ET�i'U = Eto x 0.62 x �((PF x HA)/IE) + SLA�
{Considering precipitation ETWA = (Eto-Eppt) x 0.62 x [((PF x HA)/IE)
+SLA]}
In ���hich the follow�ing abbreviations apply;
1 . ETWU = Estimated Total Water Use in gallons per year.
2. Eto = EvapoVanspiration in inches per year.
3. 0.62 = Conversion factor to gallons per square foot.
4. PF = Plant factor from �i'UCOLS.
5. HA = H��drozone Area in square feet. Each HA shall be dassified according
to its «ater use; high medium. or low accordins to the leeends on the planting
plans. � �
6. IE = Imgation Efficiency (OJ� for overhead spray devices and 0.81 for drip
s��stems).
7. Eppt— Effective precipitation or useable rainfall.
8. SLA = Portion oF the landscape area identified as Special Landscape areas
measured in square feet.
Ordinance No. 33�7
Page No. 16
2012.160 Water Allowance/Water Use Comparison.
Irrigation plans shall state, in close proximity on the sheet, the MAWA and the ETWU for each
Point of Connection thereby demonstrating that the ETWU does not exceed the MAWA in a
format acceptable to the Director of Development Services or designee.
Any sets of plans where the ETWU does exceed the MAWA shall not be approved by the City.
(ETWU shall be equal to or less than MAWA.)
Mandatory Water Restriction from the State of California, if implemented, may override the
maximum water allowance calculated for this project.
20.12.170 Limitations On The Use Of Water Features.
The total of all water features for a project, other than single-family homes with a landscape azea
of less than 5,000 squaze feet and a homeowners association or apartment building swim
complex that serves a residential project, shall be limited to 15 percent of the total ]andscape azea
of the project.
20.12.180 Turf Regulations
The following regulations shall apply to all projects that are required to submit a landscape
design package to the City for approval:
A. Turf shall not be used on slopes greater than 25 percent where the toe of the slope is
adjacent to an impermeable surface.
B. Areas less than ten (10) feet in width in any direction shall be irrigated with
subsurface irrigation or other means that produces no runoff or overspray.
C. On commercial, industrial or multi-family landscape no turf shall be installed in a
median, parking lot island or parkway unless, if determined by the city manager,
limited use of turf is necessary to provide safe access for pedestrians leaving a parked
vehide to reach the sidewalk.
�. On commercial, industrial or multifamily landscape no turf shall be installed on any
portion of the site that is inaccessible or unusable to a person who uses the site.
E. On commercial or industrial projects, decorative cool season turf shall not be used.
The use of warm season turf shall not exceed 15 percent of the total landscape area of
a project.
F. An athletic field, park, golf course, cemetery or other similar use shall be designed to
limit the use of turf to only those areas where it is essential for the operation of the
facility, as determined by the city manager. Areas where turf is not essential to the
operation of the facility shall be landscaped with plants with lower water use
requirements than turf.
G. No turf shall be allowed in a landscape area that cannot be efficiently irrigated, for
example where overspray and run off cannot be avoided.
Ordinance No. 33�7
Pa¢e Ivo. 17
20.12.190 Public Education & Model Homes
All model homes shall clearlv displa}� a sien, ��isible from the roadti�a�� adjacent to the home
using black ���ritine (hti�0 incheS hiEh minimum) On a white sien stating,
THIS MODEL HOME USES VdATER EFFICIEI�'T LAI�iDSCAPE Pu\'D IRRIGATION. Si2ns
shall eaplain the principles of H�ater efficient landscape based on a H�ater budeet and demonstrate
loti� ti�ater use approaches to landscapine such as using nati��e plants, gra}�vater s��stems, and
rainwater catchment s��stems. �
De��elopers shall pro��ide homebuvers �vith an Outdoor `VdaterSmart' Package at mo��e-in and
information about the City of Chula Vista Naturescape Program.
20.12.200 Recvcled V1'ater and Gra�� Water
I�'ewl�� constructed and rehabilitated landscapes for public aeencies and pm�ate development
projects ���ith a landscape area equal to or greater than 2,�00 squaze feet includin2, but are not
limited to, industrial, commercial, cemetery, public. quasi-public, institutional and multi-family
residential development shall use rec�-cled water or gray water for irrieation purposes where it is
a��ailable.
Use of rec��cled ���ater or gray water for irrigation purposes does not escuse a person from
complying ��ith all State and lo�al la���s and regulations related to recvcled water use or gra��
�vater use.
20.12.210 Landscape Installation
An appro��ed landscape desien package shall be fully installed prior to final inspection.
20.12.220 Landscape and Irrigation Maintenance
Once the landscape on all projects; approved as a result of these reeulations, is established, it
shall be maintained to ensure compliance �vith the approved n4AVdA b�� the part}� responsible for
landscape maintenance.
20.12.230 Modified Appro��als
An Applicant ma�� submit an application to modifj� part or all of their Landscape Documentation
PackaQe.
20.12.240 Irrigatiou Testing and Statement of Substantial Conformance
(a) For all projects approved b}� the City. the landscape azchitect of record shall state in
�i�riting that the landscape improvements have been installed in compliance N�ith the
approved Landscape Documentation Packaee prior to final inspection and Ciq� issuance
of a certificate of completion of the project. The�� shall be satisfied that the imeation
s}�stem has been functionall}� tested, b�� testing. imgation sun•e}� or im2ation audit, for,
Ordinance No. 3357
Page No. 18
but not limited to; the following: distribution uniformity, over spray and that runoff has
been addressed. and water use can match the included calculations once plants are
established with the irrigation provided. The project applicant shall submit a copy of the
testing, irrigation survey or irrigation audit to the City prior to completion or turnover in
the case of public improvements.
(2) All landscape irrigation audits shall be conducted by a third party, independently ceRified
landscape irrigation auditor. Landscape audits shall not be conducted by the person who
designed the landscape or installed the landscape.
20.12.250 City's Right to Inspect
The City has the right, but not the obligation, to inspect any landscape installation for which it
has an approved Landscape Documentation Package.
20.12.260 Waste Water Prevention
No new irrigation system (since the approval of this ordinance) shall allow irrigation water to
flow onto adjacent property, non-inigated areas, structure, walkways, road�vays or other paved
areas whether the cause is run off; low head drainage or other similar condition. Penalties for
violating any provisions of this chapter will be issued pursuant to CVMC 1.4L 100 et seq.
Ordinance No. 33�7
Page I�o. 19
APPENDIX 1 Prescripti�e Compliance Option
(a)This appendix contains prescriptive requirements �vhich may be used as a compliance
option to the Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance on small scale landscape and
imeation submittals. (2,�00 squaze feet or less.)
(b) Compliance with the follo���ing items is mandator�� and must be documented on a
landscape plan in order to use the prescriptive compliance option:
(c)At the time of final inspection; the permit applicant must pro��ide the o��mer of the
propert}� �aith a certificate of completion. certificate of installation, imgation schedule
and a schedule of landscape and imeation maintenance.
(1) Submit a Landscape Documentation Packaee N�hich includes the followine elements:
(A) date �
(B) project applicant
(C) project address (if available; parcel and/or lot number(s))
(D) total landscape area (square feet), includine a breal:do��n of turf and plant
material
(E) project t}�pe (e.g., ne��; rehabilitated, public. private, cemetery, homeo«ner-
installed)
(F) H�ater supplv tqpe (e.g., potable, recycled, �i�ell) and identifi� the local retail
ti�ater purve��or if the applicant is not sen�ed bv a private ti�ell
(G) contact information for the project applicant and property o���ner
(H) applicant signamre and date with statement, "I agree to comply H�ith the
requirements of the prescriptive compliance option to the MWELO".
(2) Incorporate compost at a rate of at least four cubic ��ards per 1,000 square feet to a
depth of six inches into landscape area (unless contra-indicated b�� a soil test);
(3) Plant material shall comply with all of the follo���ing:
(A) For residential areas, install climate adapted plants that require occasional,
little or no summer H�ater (average ��'UCOLS plant factor 03) for 75% of the
plant area excludine edibles and areas using recycled water; For non-residential
areas, install climate adapted plants that require occasional, little or no summer
�+�ater (average WUCOLS plant factor 03) for 100% of the plant area excludine
edibles and areas usine rec��cled water.
(B) A minimum three inch (3") la}�er of mulch shall be applied on all exposed soil
surfaces of plantins areas e�cept in turf areas, creepine or rooting groundcovers;
or direct seeding applications where mulch is contraindicated.
(4) Turf shall comply with all of the follo�ving:
(A) Turf shall not e�ceed 25% of the landscape area in residential areas, and there
shall be no turf in non-residential azeas:
(B) Turf shall not be planted on sloped areas ���hich esceed a slope of 1 foot
��ertical ele��ation chanee for every 4 feet of horizontal length;
(C) Turf is prohibited in park�va��s less than 10 feet wide, unless the parkw�ay is
adjacent to a pazking strip and used to enter and exit ��ehicles. Any turf in
pazk�va��s must be imgated b�� sub-surface imgation or b�� other technology that
creates no overspray or runoff.
Ordinance No. 33�7
Page No. 20
(5) Irrigation systems shall comply with the following:
(A) Automatic irrigation controllers are required and must use evapotranspiration
or soil moisture sensor data and utilize a rain sensor.
(B) Imgation controllers shall be of a type which does not lose programming data
in the event the primary power source is interrupted.
(C) Pressure regulators shall be installed on the irrigation system to ensure the
dynamic pressure of the system is within the manufacturers recommended
pressure range.
(D) Manual shut-off ��ah�es (such as a gate valve, ball valve, or butterfly valve)
shall be installed as close as possible to the point of connection of the water
supply.
(E) All irrigation emission devices must meet the requirements set in the ANSI
standard, ASABE/ICC 802-2014. "Landscape Irrigation Sprinkler and Emitter
Standard," All sprinkler heads installed in the landscape must document a
distribution uniformity ]ow quarter of 0.65 or higher using the protocol defined in
ASABE/ICC 802-2014.
(F) Areas less than ten (10) feet in width in any direction shall be irrigated with
subsurface irrigation or other means that produce no runoff or overspray.
(6) For non-residential projects with landscape areas of 1,000 square feet or more, a
private sub-meter(s) to measure landscape water use sl�all be installed.
Ordinance No. 33�7
Page I�'o. 21
Section II. Se��erabilih�
If an�� portion of this Ordinance, or its application to anv person or circumstance, is for
an�� reason held to be invalid. unenforceable or unconstitutional, by a court of competent
jurisdiction, that portion shall be deemed severable, and such im�alidit��. unenforceabilit�� or
unconstitutionality shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the remaining portions of the
Ordinance, or its application to anv other person or circumstance. The City Council of the Cit�� of
Chula Vista hereb�� declares that it ��ould have adopted each section. sentence, clause or phrase
of this Ordinance; irrespecti��e of the fact that am� one or more other sections, sentences, dauses
or phrases of the Ordinance be declazed in��alid; unenforceable or unconstimtional.
Section III. Construction
The Cih� Council of the Cin� of Chula Vista intends this Ordinance to supplement, not to
duplicate or contradict. applicable state and federal law and this Ordinance shall be conswed in
ligh[ of that intent.
Section IV. Effecti��e Date
This Ordinance shall tal:e effect and be in force on the thirtieth dav after its final passage.
5ection �'. Publication
The City Clerk shall certifi� to the passage and adoption of this Ordinance and shall cause
the same to be published or posted according to law.
Presented by Appro��ed as to form by
���'� ��' \ \
Kell� G. ou hto , ASLA Glen R. Gooeins
Directo o evelopment Sen�ices Cit}� Attornei�
Ordinance No. 33�7
Page No. 22
PASSED, APPROVED; and ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Chula Vista,
Califomia, this 17th day of November 2015, by the Pollowing vote:
AYES: Councilmembers: Aguilar, Bensoussan, McCann, Miesen and Salas
NAYS: Councilmembers: None
ABSENT: Councilmembers: None
Mary Sa s, Mayor
ATTEST:
�
Donna R. Norris, CMC, City Clerk
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF SAN DIEGO )
CITY OF CHULA VISTA )
I, Donna R. Norris, City Clerk of Chula Vista, California, do hereby certify that the foregoing
Ordinance No. 3357 had its first reading at a regular meeting held on the l Oth day of November
2015 and its second reading and adoption at a regular meeting of said City Council held on the
17th day of November 2015; and was duly published in summary form in accordance with the
requirements of state law and the City Charter.
o✓ 30 2o�S �• �
Dated Donna R. Norris, CMC, City Clerk